Nigel Smaller

I am often asked what areas I specialise in, to which I reply that I focus on "people". No matter what brings a client to therapy, they are at core a human being in a world with others. The stresses and challenges of this simple premise are infinite and the considerations to navigate each unique situation can only be understood by those living it. Revealing them will also uncover the sedimented layers of belief and givens which shape and hold us to unhealthy or meaningless modes of existence. Gradually, these layers can be identified and challenged so that incremental changes combine to rebuild a more vital and meaningful way of being in the world.

At times these layers also include traumatic experiences - areas of heightened sensitivity - stored as lessons to protect us and which now potentially harm us and reduce our experience of the world.

As a gestalt and existential therapist, my approach has an eastern philosophical feel whilst being grounded and practical too. Balancing empathy and holding with robust and compassionate challenge is part of the art of being a therapist and is what I would seek in a therapist myself. My clients are free to speak about their whole self without fear of ideological judgement - or prejudice based on lifestyle, colour, race, gender, religious or non-religious beliefs. 

Prior to entering the world of therapy, I had over 20 years in the corporate world and understand ’real world’ pressure, office politics, aggressive targets, presentation anxiety and the other varied challenges of that arena. I still provide training to corporates around stress, mindfulness and resilience.

What is Psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy has no universal definition so I can only attempt to describe what it is for me:

It’s a relationship where the therapist takes a genuine interest in your life and how you experience it. They are interested, present, non-judgemental and empathic. They seek to create safety and to meet you where you are, whether sad, excited, angry, anxious, worried or even bored.

Every way of being has meaning and interest for me. I might sometimes focus on the content of your story or history (recent or past) but will often focus on the process of your being – that is, how you think or act or make sense of and meaning in the world, how you experience yourself physically, what matters to you most? who matters to you? what is missing from your life? How do you stop yourself from being more fully yourself? What are your hopes and wishes? These questions arise naturally as part of an ongoing discussion – a mutual enquiry into your life. You will slowly develop an understanding of who you are and how you are in a way which facilitates growth and change. The movement is deep and gradual and may not always be obvious or conscious although often is. Occasionally we might use creative means such as visualisation, dreams, writing or drawing.

Finding the right person to journey with is half the battle. Therefore, I am happy to speak to anyone via telephone for a free of charge and confidential call about working with me and to answer any questions.

My modality is Gestalt-Existential a philosophical approach that acknowledges our freedom to choose how we live and the challenge to live it authentically in a world where the opinion of others matter so much too. It is also creative and experimental, optimistic and relational.

After the first session I will ask you to sleep on your decision so there is no pressure to continue unless you feel this is a good fit and worth the investment. 

There are limited concessionary spaces depending on financial situation i.e. total income rather than financial choices.  These are often taken but come up now and again as those clients move on.  Please feel free to make a case for consideration if you think you might fall into this category.  I'll always do my best to help whilst balancing my own needs. 
The price range varies according to individuals vs couples and online vs face to face (when I need to hire a room).